First time founder? Ask us anything (Beta)

Should I start a company, join a startup or join a big company?

This is a very individual choice and it really depends on what your needs are.

If you are able to go without pay for 6-12 months and is legally authorized to work in the US, you have found a team you can work with, and you feel passionate about a problem you want to solve, then starting a company right after graduation may be right for you.

If you have a financial constraint that makes it difficult for you to go on minimal pay, or if you are on a student visa and cannot figure out a way to apply for the right immigration status to legally own equity in your startup, or you haven't got a team or a problem you are passionate about solving, perhaps going to work for a startup or an established company may be the right thing to do. You can always come back to starting a startup later.

This website provides general information related to legal and business matters. It is intended for educational purposes only. This website does not and is not intended to provide legal advice. Although we take great care to make sure that all of our information is accurate and useful, if you have a specific issue for which you need actionable advice, please come to the Martin Trust Center in person to speak to one of our Entrepreneurs in Residence or consult a licensed attorney or other professional. No attorney-client, advisor, or other confidential relationship exists or will be formed between you and the Martin Trust Center or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.